The Rolex Waitlist Is Fake...for Most People.

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The Rolex waitlist, the Rolex grey market, a Rolex in general, mythical beasts in the watch world. At one time considered to be a watch of achievement, now a Rolex is a watch that costs a lot more than it should. That could be via buying an AD out of every other watch they have, paying multiples on the grey market, etc. So, Michael went undercover -- to see what this "list" was all about.
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[@TheoandHarris]

Skip the waitlist and invest in blue-chip art for the very first time by signing up for Masterworks: masterworks.com/s/theoharris

[@ShaunKVideos]

This guy on the left probably gets sick a lot. He rubbed his nose at least 100 times in this video. Is that a nervous tick?

[@TalkBoxRodeo]

Cocaine? 😂

[@markreynolds9135]

Buying blue chip art is worse than promoting Bitcoin. Come on guys, you’re better than this nonsense.

[@alfieakaronaldog]

Scammers lol

[@alfieakaronaldog]

@@markreynolds9135 The thing is they are not lol. Just showing their true colors 😜

[@joshwinzinger8644]

I’ve gone from saving and dreaming of a Rolex to absolutely despising the brand. Shifted happily to omega

[@ScaredCops]

You’re missing out. Omega not up to par with Rolex. I’ve had 5-6 Seamasters and 6 subs, rolex is better

[@TheJosephhomere13]

@@ScaredCops in what way is Omega not up to par with Rolex? I’m genuinely curious in your opinion. I’ve owned more Omegas than Rolex’s in my life and I think Omegas are better value and have much more interesting movements and designs.

[@ScaredCops]

@@TheJosephhomere13 better value? I bought a sub in 2000, wore it as a daily for 7 years and got my money back when I sold it. To me the Seamaster, handset is terrible, the bracelet is terrible, the exhibition caseback is unnecessary, and shows a bland movement (they bedazzle the thing till it’s a blur). I ask non-watch people and they think Omega is a mall watch.

[@loopbloke]

@@ScaredCops problem is not that, Rolex is not available for many

[@matts6551]

@@ScaredCops so let me get this straight you wear Rolex because you like the way it looks or you actually use it for it’s purposes of diving? The sea master destroys Rolex if you actually use it for its purpose. It’s like they say, omega makes watches, Rolex just sells them.

[@mattcarter-bennett]

I experienced the same treatment at a Rolex AD last year; I was told to buy at least an Omega first and some jewelry for my wife if I wanted any chance of looking at a Rolex. To add insult to injury, I have purchase history at that store! I’ve never returned. Great, great channel, guys. Thanks for your views.

[@zaco-km3su]

Rolex is overpriced. Just don't buy them anymore.

[@alfieakaronaldog]

Name and Shame the AD then if this is a true story and you feel it’s unreasonable 😉 My experience, in a similar situation, is that they said I needed a purchase history (fair enough I would say). I hardly had one, but decided to buy an Omega that I wanted a short time after anyway (at a discount). I then got a call for an OP about a year later. Bit of games playing maybe, but if it worked it was worth it.

[@mobydick3895]

A Rolex is essentially a conversation piece. Getting one at an AD demonstrates that you have social skills. Try to be an interesting person that the AD people want to get to know. Assure them that you never sell a watch to turn a profit. I assure the AD that I would never buy a Rolex on the used Rolex market unless it is some kind of a massive leveling up situation that would require a trade up. I tell the AD watches are valued as reminders of my younger life. I wear my watches to the AD to demonstrate I am a real buyer. When circles of guys compare Rolexes at parties it is a feather in your cap to be able to say you got yours from an AD.

[@randallsmith7885]

Speculative demand is driving this Rolex bubble. And bubbles eventually burst. Always. The way to help it along is to abstain from the market until things return to normal. Others will want the apparently unobtainable thing. Let them spend their money feeding it. Rolex will add product (they are allegedly building a new factory) and the market will run out of people willing to pay high prices and the bubble will burst. You are smart not to participate.

[@CaptainZed]

I am done with Rolex. I walk right by the AD all the time and could care less. They are dead to me. Meanwhile, if you visit Omega, it's typically a really good experience, and you can actually buy what you want.

[@r3dRoVeR247]

With the exception of a silver snoopy. Unless you have a relationship with the boutique, you're not getting one unfortunately

[@StevenPink]

@@r3dRoVeR247 Yeah, I own a Seamaster Pro and Aqua Terra bought from Mayor's. I contacted them about getting a silver snoopy right when it was announced and they said they would register my interest. I've been checking in for 2 years and the last time I checked in they said they've only gotten 2 since the announcement. Omega Boutiques are the only place that seem to get the allocations and I have no purchase history with an Omega Boutique so I've been SOL. I've had a much better experience getting Rolex allocations from Tourneau in the last 2 years than with the Omega Boutique.

[@BosworthMcG]

“Couldn’t “ care less is the expression you’re looking for.

[@JacReviewsStuff]

Ive paid deposit and im still waiting two weeks for my green seamaster :(

[@StevenPink]

@@JacReviewsStuff My Omega boutique has these sitting in the case every now and then. Don't let them jerk you around.

[@ThePilotSports]

My uncle bought a Submariner in 1970 on his way back from Vietnam. It was a gift to himself for surviving. He wore that watch everyday, and as a 5 year old boy I was just fascinated by not only the watch but what it represented to him. Fast forward 35 years, and, after 9+ years of saving, I finally have the money to buy one myself. Only I can’t! All of the snobbery involved now is a shame for people like me who want one for the right reasons. So much so that I honestly don’t even want one anymore.

[@staceygram5555]

Buy vintage.

[@ArtBorow]

Buy Omega. Don't feed this scam.

[@meenmug5797]

You are not reading the room my man. The cause of this is not the ‘snobbery’, it is the vultures that are feeding on supply / demand of the industry. Once they crawl back to where they came from to feed on their next ‘hustle’ ADs won’t have to be so selective. Rolex could easily double their retail cost and capitalize on the demand for themselves.

[@ThePilotSports]

@@meenmug5797 you’re right!

[@xsukeyx]

I can relate - my dad was a test pilot in the RAF and bought a pepsi GMT Master when he was hired by a major airline in the early 60s. He died last year and I haven't been able to find it... maybe it was stolen. I decided to buy one for myself as he did and had no idea there was this waitlist issue. Ugh.

[@SirStamford27]

How I wish the whole world to just give up on Rolex.

[@MarcosVenti]

it blows my mind people going fucking crazy for them, too annoying. I want variety and other watches. All the hype makes it boring to me, I don't care how hard it is to get it that's not what horology is about.

[@mhallon24]

Im sure someone has asked this. But if you’re going to spend $200K to get a Rolex at MSRP, why not just buy it from a reputable grey dealer and take the L on the mark up? The mark up would be way less than $200K

[@junkotamiya]

In Korea and Japan, it has become kind of the social expectation that an engagement ring should be worth 3 month's of the guy's salary. Women consider men losers if they are ONLY buying $1000 engagement rings. Personally, I think expecting the ring to cost 3 months of the man's salary is ridiculous. But, similar to the luxury brand boom going on in those countries, public perception and flaunting success has become the mainstay even in regards to engagement rings.

[@sujeevan97]

this has to be my favourite youtube video of all time. Came for the watches, stayed for the life lessons and leaving with a hate for rolex

[@rickjason215]

I wanted to buy my wife a Rolex. We went to the AD and the owner sat us down in a separate room and has us pick out features. He said we will have a watch in a few weeks, but we had to give a third as a deposit. Five months later, no watch. I realized that I was suckered. The AD makes money on the deposits. I asked for my money back and the AD was shocked I wanted my money. He didn’t want to give me back my money. I was never going to get a watch and I had a purchase history, prior to the present craziness.

[@IRFIndustries]

Name and shame

[@warlordop713]

Report them that’s theft

[@tyarnold4088]

I feel you man. It's getting crazy.

[@edgraziani5019]

This didn’t happen. AD’s do NOT take deposits on Rolex at all. You cannot order one, you can’t build one and put a deposit on it, you can’t put one on hold with a deposit…. You can’t do any of that. So this is completely false.

[@Markpaul9]

Thank you for making this and just coming out and saying it. I completely agree. Can I just say that what I feel is most disappointing is that commerce I.e. paying for something at a shop is the best way to remove discrimination, racism, feudalism etc. Commerce is meant to set an even playing field. Rolex said no to that, no to general commerce, and we should never forget that.

[@romanmichaelhamilton8729]

I'm not sure of the details regarding the contracts that ADs sign with Rolex, but would be fantastic if one of the large ADs dropped them and/or sued them for the inability to provide them with stock. This will in time kill off the Rolex brand in time as there so many other brands to choose. This is coming from a huge Rolex fan, but the games they are playing are repulsive.

[@mrcom4359]

I agree about the rings and the weddings, but you might end up in some hot water telling your fiancé that the thing that they have to wear (presumably) forever that represents their commitment to you must be cheap and boring in order not to be competitive. On the other hand, my spouse picked the cheapest and most boring ring in the store, and I knew she was the one.

[@daveveloz]

Got my wife a BEAUTIFUL vintage sapphire wedding ring when I proposed. She adored it. Still does. Any woman who thinks an expensive wedding ring is an actual determiner of love and commitment is in for a harsh reality check.

[@zaco-km3su]

A simple wedding band should be enough. It doesn't have to be expensive.

[@madrat5176]

The Rolex scam is truly disgusting. I’m so turned off of the brand at this point. Wouldn’t buy one if I could actually find one at retail. There are many brands at this point that would get my money before I’d even look at a Rolex

[@nomansland120]

and you are free to do so. But you aren't, so Rolex hardly lost a customer.

[@madrat5176]

@@nomansland120 Oh ok 😂

[@samuelburton5576]

@@nomansland120 OKAY!!!

[@amirrahnavard2231]

Everyone needs to keep talking about Rolex…. That’s how we’ll beat them lol.

[@madrat5176]

@john d it’s deliberate artificial scarcity. Demand hasn’t skyrocketed in recent years. It’s always been among the most popular of luxury brands. It wasn’t that long ago that you could walk into an AD and have a shelf full of steel models (DJ, Explorer, submariner, etc.). A conscious decision was made to turn it into a circus. I own two models that I bought when you can walk into an AD and actually buy one, but I’d be embarrassed to wear one today. It’s a loser company as far as I’m concerned.

[@MrChippinator]

You guys are so honest about all this stuff. The part about being at “jerk off” is the highlight of my day!

[@regisbarou4922]

I bought a rolex sub 5513 a very long time ago (43 years ago). Just had to push the AD's door in my home town ans got a 10% discount for it. Today situation is just insane. For sure I will never knee down just to get a chance to buy a watch.

[@complicatedtime]

I’m just tired of Rolex. So common. So boring. They make 1.4M watches a year. They serve one purpose - to impress people who know NOTHING about watches. IWC, Omega, Zenith, Lange…far more interesting from a horological perspective.

[@mattg27]

I totally agree with this. I believe that most of the hype around Rolex isn’t about history or quality or design. The #1 thing that they offer that nobody wants to admit is that you won’t spend $10k+ on a watch without everybody around you recognizing that you have an expensive watch.

[@markreynolds9135]

820,000 watches annually

[@radiospank]

100% agree, I my self have just gotten into watches a few years ago and Rolex is just a name synonymous with being rich but really they are certainly not the most expensive out there but they are attainable for avg working professionals if they choose. My point is it’s so coveted by people just for the mere fact it’s popular, i definitely have my sights set on a omega for my next watch because of this.

[@meetseth3]

Spoken like someone who can’t get a Pepsi or Rootbeer like me. Yeah stick with those brands. They don’t get the respect like my SS Daytona

[@Sensiblefool]

@@meetseth3 people recognize one Rolex and it’s not the Daytona it’s the sub.

[@johncotis5568]

Zenith Chrono 38 arrived just yesterday and then I watched this. On my 7.25" wrist it fits great. I can see that the lugs look a little long but not an issue for me.

[@adamhubler7006]

Dbag

[@Sams911]

4 years waiting for a GMT Meteorite dial at an AD where I've spent $50K on Rolex... and nothing. I then find out a guy waited 2 weeks at the same AD... why? He spent closer to $500K on "stuff"

[@jeremypatin2044]

I literally just had this same experience at my local Rolex AD. Went in a few days before Christmas; had some time to burn. The case was full of pieces; subs, ops, djs, they even had a daytona. Next to every watch was a small sign that read exhibition only. The saleswoman was extremely accommodating and let me try on a few pieces. I mentioned the disclaimer and asked how I might go about buying the silver dialed op that I had on my wrist. She then explained to me that I could put my name on a list and that they would call me if and when they got one in. I asked about how long that typically took, 6 mos a year maybe depending on the piece, but sometimes much faster. She asked if I would like to be on the list, I politely declined. But it doesn’t cost you anything to put your name on it she told me. Absolutely ridiculous…. I would have gladly purchased the watch that day. Rolex has no shame in they way they treat their customers or potential ones👎

[@tylerbetthauser7647]

Same thing here....I'll wait til the grey market tanks and purchase one out of spite in grey market.

[@naycnay]

I was in my local AD dropping off my vintage sub for some much-needed work. They happened to have a platinum Daytona. Gladly let me fondle it, but I didn't even remotely ask. It's not for sale, especially not to me! :D If Rolex would sell me a Pepsi, even if I had to wait a while in a list, I'd buy one. Get me on that list. But I'm not playing games.

[@jaime4022]

@@tylerbetthauser7647 "out of spite." I think I'll follow your lead

[@MS28227]

Owned a 214270 that I bought pre-Covid new at a Rolex AD. As I began to see what the brand has become, I sold it. I’m Enjoying my Omega’s much more. It started with one….

[@Brew2point0]

Getting maximum value in a ring: 1) Travel to a small, mom-and-pop, rural dealer where the sign has the jeweler’s name on it to 2) build your own engagement ring using blank metal arrangement from a jeweler catalog and loose stones you’ve ordered online including 3) a center/solitaire diamond just below the whole carat mark where prices jump disproportionately and with 4) a SI2 grade stone with inclusions visible only under loupe. By that method, my wife's ring with a 0.97 carat center stone (assembled 2010 in rural Arkansas) looks like $20k but cost $3995 and a few weeks to gather/assemble. Gets constant compliments. Looks like flakes of pepper under a 10x loupe but literally no one but the jeweler and I know. But most importantly, find a fiancée and social circle that aren’t materialistic. Many of our friends have drastically smaller rings and nobody cares any less about each other. I had fun making something completely unique for my wife but she would be happy with anything.

[@value4363]

Damn, great tip tbh!! thanks

[@loopbloke]

video starts at 7:23

[@isaac_bear]

Thanks bro

[@thenameiwantedwastaken]

Middle class guy from Australia here. I spent just under a months wages for an engagement ring, and I had it custom made by a local jeweller. I’m not dropping 4-5 figures on something a jeweller has 3 more of stashed in a safe

[@markreynolds9135]

I met with my local AD recently and don’t have a huge purchase history (GMT Master II, Submariner, Date Just) and I asked the manager if I could view different models even though I knew I would not be offered one. It was almost closing time and the manager brought out Daytonas in steel, white gold, GMT Master IIs, and a few high demand watches. They were great to see and I appreciated that I was able to inspect these watches even though I was not offered one.

[@skylineuk1485]

My AD did the same, great bunch of guys but I was told honestly I was on a list that had nearly 40 in front of me like guys buying at least one Patek a year of them 😳

[@memonion4515]

Wow if they can't offer you anything nice after buying a GMT, a sub, and a DJ then most people are wasting their time by even walking in there.

[@markreynolds9135]

@@memonion4515 In this climate, I still consider myself fortunate enough to have received the watches I have but now I am exploring other brands such as Tudor, Omega and Breitling.

[@memonion4515]

@@markreynolds9135 Considering your current collection I'd rather look into Zenith El Primero if you're looking for something similar to Daytona. Other than Speedy or Navitamier, Omega and Breitling don't have much to offer while Tudor is just a less refined Rolex. Also, El Primero's movement was used in the first gen automatic Daytonas so EP is as close to Daytona as it gets.

[@WestCoastAce27]

That salesperson has never experienced a really prolonged down economy. Assuming he doesn’t lose his job, he’s going to be making a lot of calls.

[@richardtan322]

Everyone works hard for their money and when one is prepared to spend thousands on a luxury watch, one is expected to be treated with respect and make the buying experience a memorable one and not be greeted with empty shelves and same old answer of nothing is available. Stick to Omega, awesome purchase experience.

[@p.9608]

I am not sure about this, but the get treated how they want to get treated otherwise they would not go for these products. btw..."the-working-hard-for-money-guys"... this is not the kind of folk luxury brands make living from and so they treat the others one them like they thing they deserve it. Just saying.

[@BobbyDazzler888]

Its not really luxury. Nothing about rolex is luxury. Even their boxes and cheap crap.

[@nomansland120]

If 100 people would walk into the Omega store at once all wanting a Speedmaster that was in the window, the store would be empty as well. Now tell me, which out of those 100 people would be more deserving of one. And with the remaining 99 that didn't get a speedy they wanted, they will go cry like babies online, justlike you are now. Fact is, nobody wants to buy a watch and lose 30% of their money walking out the door. That's why Omega doesn't have waitlists.

[@pinkbono]

@@nomansland120 if you were trying to purchase a Seamaster 300 in green, so you would know that Omega has waiting lists for specific models. Then, on a second note, just for you to know, Tudor has also waiting lists, specifically regarding the Pelagos blue, the Pelagos 39mm and both the BB Chronometers.

[@nomansland120]

@@pinkbono The difference is that those brands have 1-2 models that have a "waitlist" because it's some of the few models that people are interested in buying from those brands. Try asking for literally ANY Rolex model.. Omega, Tudor, whatever BS brands, you can walk into a store today and walk out with 20 of their models if you wanted.

[@adrianyates9879]

I began accumulating wealth when I started following up my investment properly,

[@laurabetty7815]

Mr Abbreu John helps me as well. Met him sometime last year at a startup funding event. He had some interesting things to say about the crypto market and his predictions are ALWAYS CORRECT, obviously I'm seeing the results

[@abbyreynolds2735]

I’m new to this, how can I reach your coach?

[@adrianyates9879]

You can communicate with him on IG, with the username below.

[@adrianyates9879]

abbreu_john

[@adrianyates9879]

lnstagram

[@kevindossantos6282]

How can you promote nfts? It goes against every freedom and ideal of entrepreneurship !

[@masterwatch]

The Rolex "waiting list" has always been fake. Rolex ADs have always had preferred customers and these days have indirectly sold their stock on the inflated Grey Market. Now Rolex is openly entering the Grey Market ultimately motivated by the perceived profit opportunity. I am expecting Rolex's CPO (Rolex Second Hand Watches) to include actual Rolex old stock/ New Old Stock.

[@redbeam9212]

I inherited my great grandfather's Rolex which started a love of watches. I have a pretty decent collection of Omegas and Longines, but the treatment I've gotten at ADs has turned me off of Rolex. It's a brand for old men and Instagram celebrities. It has however been a great opportunity to discover other brands and watchmakers.

[@GeordsYouTube]

Walked into AD wearing a Seiko, Walked out wearing an OP no waitlist no BS.. things must of been different back in 2019

[@MattyVice]

They were

[@WestCoastAce27]

Hope you enjoy the OP, but it doesn’t garner nearly the demand that Subs, GMTs, Daytonas do.

[@alexlilano1931]

I literally did that to get the Omega AT. I was wearing a Seiko Turtle.

[@nomansland120]

must *have

[@Will-kl5ri]

I bet this market returns in the next two years - the economy is coming down.

[@jimlittle5769]

I hear all this about people not being able to get Rolex from ADs without huge amounts spent and I'm like, MAN, I'm glad I didn't have to do any of that. I feel bad for those who felt they needed to.

[@bobbycalifornia7077]

That Rolex wait list spending game works so well it’s spreading to other brands. Went to a Watches of Switzerland Omega boutique and was told that my purchase history would be checked and the corporation would decide whether I qualify for the 60th anniversary Bond SMP. Go figure.

[@zaco-km3su]

It's a limited edition. Rolex is doing it to the basic models. That's one big difference.

[@bobbycalifornia7077]

@@zaco-km3su To start. Wasn’t being done previously and with Omega producing desirable hits lately we’ll if/how it spreads further.

[@edwardoconnor3082]

I am currently on a waitlist. First purchase. Assured I will have a watch. We shall see.

[@bhuber77]

Any update?

[@MrPinkWhiteBlack]

I live in NYC and just had this experience. I go into a big AD and ask if there have a Tudor Black Bay Chrono Reverse Panda. They say no. I ask them to please give me a call when they do and leave my card. Two weeks later some sales guy gives me a call and asks me to come to another AD, he has the Chrono for me. I go over there and see the latest Rolex Sea Dweller 43mm as an exhibition piece. I look at it and love it better than the Chronograph (I'm comparing two big, black, red-lined divers from the Rolex/Tudor company). I ask how long it will take to get the Sea Dweller instead. They say two month. I say, okay then I'll take that one. After two month they call me to let me know they have the watch. Now I am traveling unfortunately and can't come in and the sales guy keeps following up (chasing me) to get the watch. I never bought any watch or any jewelry at either of the stores ever. So what is exactly the problem??? Seams to me some sales people are just dicks that love to treat people badly because it makes then feel superior. Pathetic really. My experience with Rolex/Tudor was nothing but courteous, polite, accommodating, reliable and prompt and they did NOT know me at all in any way and I did not put any money down... Go figure.

[@kpkost]

My vision was like most: I wanted to own a Rolex so bad when I was younger. The prestige and name had its effect on me as it does so many people. 2022 I had a breakout year for my job. I started looking around for my first Luxury watch. After even a little bit of learning about Rolex basically never being innovative and only banking on reputation, I went with a White Birch from Grand Seiko. Since then, I’ve been planning my next watch. Never at one point have I even looked Rolex’s way. Not even for a minute. Rolex better hope their name and prestige continues to carry them, cause they’ve turned off this new Watch enthusiast permanently and I’m sure I’m not the only one

[@ajmarion]

Similar story here, I was between GS and Tudor - both great choices. I went with the BB58, but will certainly buy a GS Shunbun in the future 🤤 I would have loved to purchase an explorer or DJ or something, but had 0 interest in playing the game.

[@daveveloz]

I completely feel the same

[@jethrojacinto2798]

Good for you and honestly I hope more watch enthusiasts, especially new ones that are just starting their careers look elsewhere with their new hard-earned money because Rolex for sure dont fucking deserve them. Also congrats on the White Birch!

[@LanguagesWithAndrew]

"After even a little bit of learning about Rolex basically never being innovative and only banking on reputation, I went with a White Birch from Grand Seiko." *Excellent* choice. I'm in the market now (at that $5-15k price range) and am looking at Grand Seiko, Omega, and JLC - if I could get a Rolex at MSRP tomorrow, I'd still choose one of those other three brands.

[@daveveloz]

@@LanguagesWithAndrew good to know

[@thor_86]

I believe new york is especially crazy due to the vast amount of wealthy people, with only 8 (that I could count) ADs and literally 1 million millionaires (in manhattan). But in most smaller cities that aren't big metropolises full of rich people, altho hard you can definitely get one without spending 100k on other shit. I've bought 5 of them in 2 ADs and I only have around 8k of spending history that wasn't a rolex. I live in a european city with less than 750k of population, most people are regular people with regular salaries, with some millionaires here and there among the commoners.

[@BFlood4471]

I was reading a book on cocaine addiction the other day After the first few lines I was hooked.

[@josephgschwartz]

At this point I don't even want to associate with Rolex. But I'm not their customer... I guess. I've got the cash but my professional sentiment is that I am not going to pay for something where they are deliberately raking you over the coals. And I'm definitely not going to spend money when I'm supposed to be grateful for that treatment. I'm not that stupid. That's an abusive relationship.

[@bbrebozo6417]

The purpose of having a Rolex ADship for a jeweler is to reduce the amount of discounting they need to do to get rid of the high margin diamonds jewelry though bundling. Christian asking the “how stupid are you” question is right to the point. It illustrates the futility of building a relationship with a jeweler that has that 5 point coronet logo on the wall.

[@cohan.forcer]

Great chemistry between you two, great channel atm.

[@berlinwatchguy818]

Unbelievably in Bucherer, at least in Germany, Rolex don't have waitlists anymore, they have what is called WISH LISTS! INCREDIBLE attitude. I have a £12,000 voucher there I got by selling them a Deepsea i didn't want anymore and may never use on a Rolex.

[@diavalus]

It is unbelievable so many people get up in this crap and still want their watches. This is so similar to the Dutch tulip story.

[@mackenzestewart4672]

I have friends who have spent 100k plus and still haven't been offered the watch they want. You don't have to play the games, I shopped around AD's in my area and was able to get a rootbeer GMT from a AD after waiting a month after requesting it

[@alexprime9984]

I've bought 4 rolexes( 2 subs and 2 GMT's) and one Tudor (black bay 58) from my AD in NY. Never bought one piece of jewelry.

[@brandondunkin8881]

It’s cool listening to you guys about Rolex because for all the reasons you hate them is exactly why I love them.

[@robertp5123]

Honestly…. I wish we would stop talking about Rolex. It would be nice to start hearing more about Omega, IWC, Breitling, and Longines. I’m sick about hearing the same story about Rolex. Rolex is basically all hype and well marketed. In my opinion, I enjoy the customer service experience I receive at my Omega boutique. The experience is classy as the timepieces they offer.

[@IXIFrostIXI]

Good example of why people Are going to high end reps

[@watchofwallstreet935]

My AD told me I’d have to have 200,000 in sales history before a Daytona, I spent lil over 10k before getting a sub, was at about 60k before I got my Pepsi gmt, best way to get something is to buy jewelry that’s where these AD make their money, my AD two weeks ago told me they still have coral and yellow OPs in the vault and haven’t gotten approval to sell them

[@stephenhayes3788]

I got my GMT Batman in 3 months from an AD. I didn’t think it was an unreasonable amount of time. I guess mileage varies.

[@dengised321]

To make this Rolex issue even worse, I've met with Rolex ADs in Manhattan, who told me that to purchase the Rolex watches I want, I would have first to buy 30-50k in unpopular Rolex watches. I asked if I could purchase 30-50k in non-Rolex watches (because I'm interested in several other watches brands too), and the sales associate flat-out said "No, you have to buy Rolex watches to build up a history with Rolex." So the only way for me to get a Daytona or a GMT, for example, is to buy a bunch of Rolexes that I don't even want, ANNNND I can't EVVVVER resell them because if the AD finds out that has happened, they cut you off! Haha, and this is why I don't buy Rolex watches anymore. Sad. State. Of. Affairs.

[@GM-ii8gs]

Cheaper to go grey.

[@user-su1xk3mv2b]

I spent 35K at the exact same Rolex store In Chicago with the exact same AD and I still can’t even get them to answer the phone or call back lol

[@ryanjofre]

So sad and pathetic that I want to write a song about it!

[@syafiqrasyid4887]

What unpopular rolex watches are always on stock for men?

[@pendergasti2744]

This video explains perfectly why the grey market is so popular and necessary. If I can get an excellent condition used Rolex for $5000 more than MSRP, but I don't need to spend $12,000 on other watches at an AD to get the same Rolex how is that not a better option?

[@tom4626]

Isn’t it partly because of the grey market that the demand means for average folks (and who is average if you can afford a luxury watch)puts Rolex out of reach?

[@lazyrider6918]

I went into a Rolex AD in hidden suburb and got a Submariner No Date in less than 2 months. Be creative. That was the ONLY AD I went into and go the call in under 2 months.

[@nikcertified8778]

bought a new Rolex GMT in 2017 with a discount! no games walked in the AD and just bought it. those days are long gone

[@josephzamorajr]

The way Christian says “blue chip” would make Jordan Belfort proud

[@TheWatchTechnician]

I’m not sure where most of the commenters have been, but all of my customers know that I’m looking out for them. I just feel sorry that there’s AD’s that make the rest of us look bad. Most of us are on the up and up and work within the parameters of what Rolex has set. Good luck to all Rolex enthusiasts ❤

[@Watch4Me]

Thanks for being here. I consider my AD a friend. I also understand supply and demand. The wait seems reasonable to me because I can buy a Rolex quarterly if I want.

[@LucasKellis]

Wow, the convo about Rolex and engagement rings blew my mind. Upstate New Yorker, and I had gotten a rather decent job after college and that figure Christian dropped on engagement rings in the NYC and Chicago area blew my mind! Only a few thousand away from an entire years salary for me (my medical and retirement benefits almost double my cash salary)! And I thought 1-1.5K for a ring was pushing it. It's incredible how it blows my mind the amount of extra wealth just floating around.

[@romanmichaelhamilton8729]

Per 2020, the IRS listed 2 million people who just exceeded an annual salary of $200K, so there's some floating around, but not as much as you think. It's mostly a LOT of debt versus pure wealth.

[@Watch4Me]

@@romanmichaelhamilton8729 at 200k a 30k purchase is going to be a debt purchase. Assuming they have a 200k lifestyle. Ie. Own a car, eat lunch out, party with friends or have wife and kid.

[@matthewhelm3035]

Nice episode gents. Loved your honest feedback on The Game! That’s when you do the math and pick up the Submariner from a reputable preowned dealer for 10-15% over MSRP. Better than buying watches you don’t want or worse jewelry you’ll put in a box. Plus you’ll save in the long run and enjoy your Sub now. In a few years you’ll make your money back. That’s the beauty of Rolex sports models. 🥂

[@Phsymphonic06]

Had a bad experience with Rolex in Dubai, but the ADs here in Hawaii are awesome. Based on my conversation with the AD's here, they are very meticulous with customers, and if you are genuinely a cool person with a decent background, you have an awesome chance of getting almost any watch you want (from experience). For them relationships are important here, but I think that's the culture here in Hawaii.

[@Laguna2013]

how do the ADs support the salaries of so many employees if they have so little to sell?

[@bluecrab78]

I got the engagement ring and a diamond "separately" from a jeweler not affiliated with a store, got it made just for me to my specs (even got to critique and modify the mold CAD file) and got a good valuation compared to if I bought it "off the rack". Hoping to buy a rolex or Omega on my next overseas deployment. Don't want to play these AD games. My friend was shocked when we went into a dealer and I told him that if he had cash on hand, he wasn't buying the Sub in the case.

[@FireBlade57]

..it's no different overseas...

[@rjptoronto]

Don’t blame Rolex for the demand. Up to 2017 you could walk in to an AD and buy a Daytona. But in the last 5 years young flippers came into the market and younger people wanted to flex on their wrist. This drove up the demand and also created the gaming for both consumer and ADs.

[@becnal]

Basic economics and human psychology: scarcity is directly related to desirability.

[@kingsleycy3450]

My mates saw my Omega and thought I was the most well off person ever. If you are only interested in the base superficiality, you can save a lot buying another brand over Rolex.

[@pinkbono]

Guys, I've spent 400€ on my wedding rings back in time, I was 28yo and it was a lot of money. Now I'm 46 and life is finally becoming less hard on me so I'm able to buy luxuous watches and I should be more reasonable on the topic, but still, if I had to buy another pair of wedding rings today so I would never pay more than 1000€, because it's not and it's never been about any value but about feelings, it's symbolic, it's a bond between two lovers dedicating their lifes one to the other and love is, between others things, about humility, certainly not about showing off. Then, I would not hesitate to offer a luxuous watch to my wife if she wished one, but she is not, so far.

[@notaflightreactsfan3706]

this was perfect teddy, really appreciate everyone you got on here, really setting off the 2023 to a great year!

[@technologist1412]

I'm guessing Michael was shopping in NY/NJ, but in Tysons Corner VA at Liljenquist & Beckstead Jewelers, they are awesome. I put my name on a list around Oct of this year for the Rolex Sub No Date and Polar White Explorer II, and to my shock and amazement, they called within a couple of months, saying they got the Sub in stock and if I was ready to buy, I could come get it. (And this was before I even spent a penny in the store). Unfortunately I couldn't buy it at the time, but the sales guy asked if he could call me back when they get another one in. I'm very happy with them.

[@dBsdecibels]

That's heartening to hear! I've been working with Mark at that store for a bit. No purchase history yet, but like you, I'm on the list for an Explorer 2 White dial. I don't mind waiting. In fact, I'm sort of planning on it. Hoping it's arrival will time well with my beating cancer. That's the intent of it, to commemorate that. Heartening to know that they are a good store and that my patience may actually be rewarded =)

[@technologist1412]

@@dBsdecibels Congratulations on beating cancer! I hope you get the call very soon. More recently I actually went in just to look at a Longines, which they didn't have, but they did have a Yellow Breitling SuperOcean (previous model). I made the mistake of putting it on, that was all she wrote. The damn thing looked so good on my wrist, 45 minutes later, I had to buy it. These damn things are addicting!! Cheers mate.... wishing you a happy and healthy 2023 and beyond.

[@dBsdecibels]

@@technologist1412 Thank you! Glad you found something you liked! Hope you get your calls soon as well. I don't mind waiting a bit, I won't be past the monitoring period for a couple years yet. That's when it'll be official, hence why I don't mind waiting on the list...just so long as I know it'll happen eventually!

[@northernroamer4202]

Was at Dubai Airport in 2015. They had two date subs and a hulk for sale there and then. Bought one of the subs… the salesman tried to force the hulk on me for an extra £600.. I declined 😢 thought I’d go with the classic sub. Haunts me to this day!

[@Jiii73636]

Think of the Daytona like a Birkin bag from Hermes. It’s a nice thank you purchase for being loyal to the brand.

[@jacstoneu]

Its not worth playing the AD game. Its cheaper to buy it from the Grey Market

[@RexGunderson]

Amazing banter. Love the content guys. Thank you

[@OuijTube]

A Rolex is a great $5,000 watch that for some reason you have to spend $100,000 to buy

[@williamrizzo1285]

Last year I purchased two DJs from Mayers with no purchase history. Six months wait for mine and 9 months for my wife's, both ordered with the specifications we asked for.

[@fire_watch7735]

I’m on good terms with my small AD and have been allocated many Rolex, when it came to the Daytona, before COVID, they were tallying how many people had requested the Daytona and they were way over one thousand people and the AD is only allocated 2-3 per year. I’m sure bigger AD’s get allocated a lot more but they also get more requests so the chances are pretty slim.

[@daveveloz]

Holy crap!

[@twowheels833]

Why, thank you for mentioning me throughout the video man. Happy 2023, from Regular Jerkoff.

[@memonion4515]

Considering that most humans are status driven they want to buy Rolex not even because it's the best but because it's one of the most recognizable status symbols thanks to Rolex's decades of marketing. Rolex is no longer an enthusiast brand. It's show-off brand to let people know you've got several extra grands in your pocket. Most Rolex owners I've met know nothing about their watches while guys with SKXs can talk about them for an hour.

[@omar10213245]

I'm guessing the AD with the crazy marked-up prices was....Govberg?? Torneau?

[@canada1966]

There are waitlists but they’re usually 2-3 people MAX

[@j.t1682]

I heard many stories like Michael's in America. But here in Singapore Rolex dealers 9 out of 10 times don't treat you this way. Even AP and Patek dealers are super nice. I was offered AP 15500st with six months waiting time. Singapore and Dubai are so different from the U.S.

[@silveriver9]

That's great to hear. I hope to visit Singapore again this year.

[@j.t1682]

@@silveriver9 if you get to come to Singapore, go to Rolex boutique by watch palace at Lucky plaza on Orchard road. I was there yesterday trying on Daytona. The salesperson gave me a bottle of Evian and explained to me about the waiting list. I told her I am not interested in going on the list but she insists I do and said I will receive a call within a year. Yes, I told her i have other Rolex pieces in my collection. Hey you never know.

[@silveriver9]

@J. T Noted! Thanks for the heads up bro, much appreciated. I'll be sure to drop into the store.

[@lost5587]

Lol from my experience Singapore is very hit or miss. Met some of the nicest ADs as well as some of the snobbiest pieces of shit I've ever seen

[@MrCoolCats]

I've never understood, why people are happy to pay for stuff they don't want to potentially buy a Rolex at retail. Why don't you just go grey market in which case, instead of buying stuff you don't want or need and are being forced to buy, by an AD?

[@TheRacerRich]

Regular person here. Gold band ring, wedding was dinner and drinks for 20 people. God bless my wife.

[@TennesseeHoney12]

Yep, 100%, all Rolex’s are gifts to the customers with consistent spend history.

[@artaudcharles]

Thank you for the insightful and engaging horological conversations. Be well and have a great 2023 🎉

[@michaelcastellano2318]

Love those guys. One of the best pod casts/ you tube videos out there. These two are class acts…awesome content.

[@td6588]

But why would you spent all that money in AD ? Instead buy grey fot the fraction of that money..

[@Joyhappyfree]

Hey my dudes, when’s the next podcast going online on Apple? Been missing them. Cheers from Tel Aviv 🍻

[@mikej5959]

Why not just buy grey market? Why spend 120 in other undesirable watches when you can get a Sub easily for 10-15.

[@monkeymanprophecy]

I think that is the point. At one point, rolex was for the wealthy. But now random dudes with a high limit credit card can buy it. So what do think the people with that credit card did? Bought Rolexes. I still remember. 8 years ago, a drug rep walked into the clinic where I was a student wearing a two tone rolex sub. The doctor I was working with, was wearing a G shock. Took me 8 years to figure out why.

[@chriswelcome77]

Prob bc the sales rep made way more money than the dr. Also the gshock is easier to wash germs and fluids off of.

[@OPP841]

To be honest I don't find any reason why AD should sell to an ordinary walk in customer since they can just sell to Grey that way more profit no matter what model. Operating an AD is about making profits selling to grey more profit than to walk in customers. I just don't find any reason why AD should sell to ordinary folks like us.

[@stevelangsdorf7307]

Christian, two things, I'm sure you've done your chores ( fed the chicken's, slopped the hogs) so you can remove the field jacket. 2. Apparently you have some money 💵 we don't need to hear about it every show. Have a great day Michael 😄

[@jakejohnson6120]

Totally. Theo thinks he’s better than you.

[@to4217]

Man, I just disregard Rolex at this point. They don’t exist to me so long as they keep practicing the way they have been. Don’t want it won’t seek it.

[@fire_watch7735]

C’mon, a lot of luxury goods are only allocated to select customers, that’s the way life is… I’m not sure why we complain about it. Ferrari, Hermes, Richard Mille, etc. Rolex is no different.

[@ai-rz7ty]

Have the Chrononmaster Original and not disappointed. He must have tiny wrists. Off the jump, you can upset with how the lugs do not curve in toward your wrists but settles in nicely once you have the right fit. If you are looking for the spacing you will see some but weak wrists can’t handle this model.😅

[@Eliminator-rl9sn]

If you look at the secondary market for Rolex watches, you will find that ADs seem to sell these watches mainly to flippers. I can not see where the shortage of Rolex watches is. They simply are not sold to fans anymore. The ADs know exactly to whom they sell.

[@janezpetergrom4731]

if you are proclaiming yourself as a "watch person" but do not appreciate the history of Zenith than you just don't get it... change passion

[@evano8312]

Who didn’t

[@treykasia127]

I sold my GMT II back in 2019 when my local AD (from whom I originally bought the watch) gave me the cold shoulder (I'll save the entertaining story). I have since bought and a Moser, (2) Omegas, and a Gr. Seiko. Capitalism over materialism. There is a TON of excellent (better than Rolly) watches on the market. But the bottom line is that everyone from wealthy to poor are trying to operate as fast as money velocity. Therefore, there is an exponentially growing number for folks making "long" buys... hence the Art market explosion.

[@PanditaP]

My manager got the call for a submariner in 2 months, his purchase history was 1 datejust. He only waited 1 month for that as well. Wild.

[@Meowhsss]

Me pretty much the same DJ and then a Sub, bought a little jewelry

[@gigar9000]

I went to buy a watch in a mall where an entire floor is filled with grey market watch sellers. They have A TON of Rolexes displayed in the windows. If you tell me there's a scarcity, I will not believe you.

[@lifewalker808]

In Hong Kong, you can't just put yourself on the waiting list. You could technically, but it's just a piece of forgotten paper in their drawer. What we have to do is to buildup a good purchase record and to please the sales. I don't even understand why we have to do this as customers

[@thegabal1484]

I actually picked up an explorer 2 polar dial from AD with no purchase history last month, while traveling to Egypt. I could hardly believe it, especially after having refused to participate in the AD schmoozing in Dubai, where there was absolutely no chance.

[@memonion4515]

Buying from smaller markets seems to be the best way. Just too much money and demand in places like Dubai, London, NYC etc.

[@thegabal1484]

Totally agree.

[@drakechandler7114]

Why doesn’t anyone complain about not being able to get a Patek or an AP? Always hating on Rolex.